MP4KE6.8AE3 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MP4KE6.8AE3 is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Microchip Technology, designed for general-purpose overvoltage protection applications. This through-hole component operates with a reverse standoff voltage of 5.8V and provides clamping at 10.5V maximum, capable of handling peak pulse currents of 38A. The device is classified as military-grade and qualified to MIL-PRF-19500 standards. Identification of equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to address inventory availability, packaging requirements, compliance specifications, and operational temperature range considerations across different procurement scenarios.

Substiute Parts

MP4KE6.8AE3

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 859MP4KE6.8AE3 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

P4KE6.8A

Taiwan Semiconductor CorporationIn Stock: 300261P4KE6.8A Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the MP4KE6.8AE3 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical electrical and mechanical parameters:

Electrical Equivalence Criteria:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ): 5.8V
• Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp: 10.5V
• Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs): 38A minimum
• Power - Peak Pulse: 400W
• Type: Zener, Unidirectional (1 channel)

Mechanical Equivalence Criteria:

• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Package / Case: DO-204AL (DO-41), Axial

Compliance and Operational Criteria:

• Product Status: Active
• Applications: General Purpose
• Moisture Sensitivity Level: 1 (Unlimited)

The P4KE6.8A from Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation qualifies as a direct substitute based on matching electrical specifications, identical package configuration, and active product status. Differences in operating temperature range, packaging format (Tape & Reel vs. Bulk), RoHS compliance status, and peak pulse current rating (40A vs. 38A) are noted but do not preclude substitution within the defined electrical and mechanical parameters.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Selection: MP4KE6.8AE3

The MP4KE6.8AE3 is the specified component and remains the primary selection when military-grade qualification (MIL-PRF-19500) and bulk packaging are required. This part is active and maintains full inventory availability (783 pcs).

Substitute Selection: P4KE6.8A

The P4KE6.8A from Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation is a qualified substitute when the following conditions apply:

1. Compliance Requirements: RoHS3 compliance is required or preferred. The P4KE6.8A meets RoHS3 standards, whereas the MP4KE6.8AE3 is RoHS non-compliant.

2. Packaging Format: Tape & Reel packaging is acceptable or required for automated assembly processes. The P4KE6.8A is supplied in Tape & Reel format with significantly higher inventory availability (300,200 pcs).

3. Operating Temperature: The extended operating temperature range of -55°C to 175°C (versus -65°C to 150°C) is acceptable for the application.

4. Peak Pulse Current: The higher peak pulse current rating of 40A (versus 38A) provides additional margin and is compatible with the application.

5. Military Qualification: When MIL-PRF-19500 qualification is not a contractual or design requirement, the P4KE6.8A provides equivalent electrical performance.

Both parts share identical electrical characteristics for voltage regulation, clamping, and power dissipation. Both maintain unlimited moisture sensitivity (MSL 1) and are classified as REACH Unaffected with EAR99 export classification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the P4KE6.8A replace the MP4KE6.8AE3 in all applications?

A: The P4KE6.8A is electrically and mechanically equivalent for general-purpose TVS applications. Substitution is valid when military-grade qualification (MIL-PRF-19500) is not a design or contractual requirement. Both devices provide identical voltage regulation and clamping characteristics.

Q: What is the difference in peak pulse current between these parts?

A: The MP4KE6.8AE3 is rated for 38A peak pulse current, while the P4KE6.8A is rated for 40A. The higher rating of the substitute part provides additional design margin and is fully compatible with applications designed for the 38A specification.

Q: Are the packages identical?

A: Both parts use the DO-204AL (DO-41) axial through-hole package. The primary packaging difference is format: the MP4KE6.8AE3 is supplied in Bulk, while the P4KE6.8A is supplied in Tape & Reel. Both are suitable for through-hole PCB assembly.

Q: Does the operating temperature range difference affect substitution?

A: The P4KE6.8A operates from -55°C to 175°C, compared to -65°C to 150°C for the MP4KE6.8AE3. The substitute part has an extended upper temperature limit and a slightly reduced lower limit. Substitution is valid when the application operates within the -55°C to 150°C overlap range.

Q: What is the significance of RoHS compliance status?

A: The MP4KE6.8AE3 is RoHS non-compliant, while the P4KE6.8A is RoHS3 compliant. For applications subject to RoHS regulations or customer requirements, the P4KE6.8A is the appropriate selection.

Q: Are both parts currently in stock?

A: The MP4KE6.8AE3 has 783 pcs in stock (Bulk packaging). The P4KE6.8A has 300,200 pcs in stock (Tape & Reel packaging). The substitute part offers significantly higher availability for high-volume procurement.

Q: What does MIL-PRF-19500 qualification mean?

A: MIL-PRF-19500 is a military performance specification for semiconductor devices. The MP4KE6.8AE3 meets this qualification standard. The P4KE6.8A does not carry this certification. Selection depends on whether military-grade qualification is a contractual or design requirement.

Q: Can these parts be used interchangeably on the same PCB?

A: Yes, both parts are pin-compatible and use identical DO-204AL (DO-41) through-hole packages. They can be used interchangeably on the same PCB layout without modification.